It is sad, but a privilege, for us to conduct a Funeral Service for you at St. Andrew’s. These guidelines are to help you think about what you want before meeting with a priest and your Funeral Director, with whom we will work closely. Sometimes the person who has died leaves instructions about what they want at the funeral. If so, you will probably want to respect their wishes. However a Funeral is also meant to help you, so respecting your needs in the Service is important too. If you want to leave all the planning to the priest, he or she will be very happy to do it, but you may like to think of some of the things set out below.

AddressWho would you like to speak about the deceased? The clergy are very experienced at this but there may be somebody else you would prefer to give the address.

MusicIs there any special music? If the funeral is taking place in church it needs to be suitable for playing on the organ. We are able to play CDs but you need to provide the music. The fee for an organist varies from £40 (and, because of copyright laws, double if you want to make a recording of the service).

HymnsChoose hymns that you think people will be able to sing. It may help to have a choir if the mourners are likely to be particularly distressed or unfamiliar with church hymns. If you want a choir we can suggest a contact but there will be an additional fee.

ReadingsDo you or did the deceased have a favourite bible reading or poem to be read? Is there a friend or family member you would like to ask to do the reading? We can lend you a book of readings and poems if you wish.

PrayersDo you have any favourite prayers? Would you like some music played for a time of silent reflection during the prayers?

PictureIf it helps, you may like to display a photo of the deceased in church.

FlowersIf you wish to have flowers in church then please ask the florist to ring the Parish Office for guidance on what is suitable and times for delivering the flowers.

ChildrenChildren are most welcome at a Funeral; they need to be able to say their own goodbyes. It may help to invite them to draw a picture, which, if appropriate, can be put in the coffin or in the grave at a burial. They may like to place a flower on the coffin.